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Varna

Bulgaria · Coast · BGN · 43.216700, 27.916700
Family friendly 8.1/10 · Rank 95 of 2 709
Best season: July-September

Best for

Suitable for beach lovers, nightlife enthusiasts, urban tourism, families, and youth

Best season

July-September

Daily budget
$83.00 (≈ 6 965 ₽ · ≈ 149 BGN)
For 7 days
$581.00 (≈ 48 758 ₽ · ≈ 1 046 BGN)
Varna is the "sea capital" of Bulgaria and the country's largest port on the Black Sea coast. The city is famous for its wide beaches with golden sand and the scenic Seaside Park. Among the main attractions are the 2nd-century Roman baths and the Dormition Cathedral.
Summer
29.0°C
Winter
1.0°C
Sea
23.0°C
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Description and atmosphere

Energy

active

Pace of life

moderate

Local character

Friendly, hospitable, with a cosmopolitan character and love for the sea

Pros and cons

Pros

  • Developed tourist infrastructure
  • Many golden sand beaches
  • Rich cultural and historical program
  • Vibrant nightlife
  • Proximity to airport
  • Variety of hotels and restaurants
  • Diving and snorkeling opportunities

Cons

  • No direct flights from Moscow
  • Crowded during peak season
  • Rip currents in August
  • High prices in the center
  • Noisy in tourist areas
Climate
Summer Temperature
Average air temperature in June–August
28.0°C
Summer Daytime Temp
Average daytime temperature in June-August
29.0°C
Summer Max Temp
Maximum daytime temperature in summer months
29.0°C
Winter Temperature
Average air temperature in December–February
4.0°C
Winter Daytime Temp
Average daytime temperature in December-February
7.5°C
Winter Min Temp
Minimum temperature in winter months
1.0°C
Summer Water Temperature
Average sea temperature in the warm season
25.0°C
Water Max Temp
Maximum water temperature in warm season
23.0°C
Rainy Season
Months with the heaviest rainfall
November-December
Sea and beach
Sand Type
Type of beach surface
sand
Sand Color
Colour of the beach sand
golden
Water Entry
Type of water entry
gentle
Waves
Level of waves
weak
Water Clarity
Clarity of the water
clear
Best Beach
Name of the most popular beach
Central Beach
Beach
Availability of a beach
Yes
Tides
Whether tides are noticeable
No
Rip Currents
Presence of dangerous rip currents
Yes
Sunbeds
Availability of sunbeds
Yes
Beach Cafe
Availability of a cafe or bar
Yes
Toilet / Shower
Availability of toilets and showers
Yes
Lifeguards
Presence of lifeguards
Yes
Safe for Swimming
Whether swimming is safe
Yes
Sea hazards
Sea Urchins
Presence of sea urchins
None
Corals / Reefs
Presence of corals or reefs
None
Jellyfish
Presence of jellyfish
Present
Sharks
Presence of sharks
Present
Overall Danger
Overall danger rating
low
Note

Main danger is rip currents (dead swell), especially in August. Swimming on guarded beaches recommended

Sea urchins — details

  • Sea urchins in the Black Sea off the coast of Varna are represented by common species inhabiting the rocky seabed. They do not pose a serious danger, but special swimming shoes are recommended
  • Sea urchins can be seen among the Black Sea fauna exhibits in the local aquarium

Corals and reefs — details

  • Coral reefs are absent off the coast of Varna — the Black Sea is characterised by low salinity and the absence of reef-building corals. Only fossil Eocene reefs («upright stones») formed by limestone columns have been identified in the Bulgarian Black Sea area
  • Tropical coral reef exhibits can be seen in the local aquarium, but they do not occur in the natural environment

Jellyfish — details

  • Two species of jellyfish inhabit the Black Sea: lung jellyfish and moon jellyfish
  • Peak reproduction in late spring and autumn, contact can cause skin irritation

Sharks — details

  • The Black Sea is home to the spiny dogfish (Squalus acanthias), not dangerous to humans
  • Sharks stay at depth and rarely approach the shore
Attractions

Sea Garden

Varna's largest park with alleys, fountains, playgrounds, and sea access

Dormition of the Mother of God Cathedral

Varna's main Orthodox church, one of the largest in the Balkans, built in Neo-Byzantine style

Archaeological Museum

Museum with the world's oldest gold treasure and Roman-era artifacts

Roman Thermae

Ruins of the largest Roman baths in the Balkans, monument of ancient architecture

Aladzha Monastery

13th-century rock monastery carved into a limestone cliff

Euxinograd Palace

Former summer residence of Bulgarian tsars, located in a scenic park

Sea Garden

Scenic park along the coast with sea and city views

Varna Aquarium

Aquarium with a collection of Black Sea and exotic marine life

Best areas

Center

Historic center with cathedral, museums, shops, and restaurants

Sea Garden Area

Prestigious area along the park with hotels and restaurants, popular for walks

Asparuhovo

Residential area with wide beach and relaxed atmosphere

Lazur

Modern area with hotels and sea views

Greek Quarter

Historic area with colorful streets and authentic atmosphere

Must-try food

Shkembe Chorba

Tripe soup with garlic and vinegar, traditional Bulgarian dish, popular for breakfast

Kebapcheta

Spicy minced meat sausages grilled on a barbecue

Moussaka

Baked casserole of potatoes, eggplant, and minced meat with white cheese

Banitsa

Layered pastry with white cheese, traditional Bulgarian dish

Gyuvech

Meat stew with beef and vegetables, baked in a clay pot

Bob Chorba

Hearty bean soup with meat and spices

Palneni Chushki

Stuffed peppers with rice and meat

Gevrek

Round bread with sesame seeds, similar to a bagel

Where to go next

Golden Sands

Popular resort with 3.5 km of beaches and entertainment, 17 km away

Sts. Constantine and Helena

Resort with mineral springs and beaches, 10 km away

Balchik

Town with Queen Marie's Palace and botanical garden, 40 km away

Stone Forest

Natural phenomenon with petrified columns, 20 km away

Aladzha Monastery

13th-century rock monastery, 15 km away

Family Friendly
Suitable for families with children
Yes
Nightlife
Level of nightlife
high
Getting there
Nearest airports
Варна Международный Аэропорт (VAR).
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Visa
Visa requirements
required (Schengen)
Best Season
Months with the most comfortable weather
July-September
Accommodation
Hostel (Dorm Bed)
Average price for a hostel dorm bed
$12.00
≈ 1 007 ₽ · ≈ 22 BGN
3-Star Hotel
Average price for a 3-star hotel room
$50.00
≈ 4 196 ₽ · ≈ 90 BGN
4-Star Hotel
Average price for a 4-star hotel room
$80.00
≈ 6 714 ₽ · ≈ 144 BGN
5-Star Hotel
Average price for a 5-star hotel room
$150.00
≈ 12 588 ₽ · ≈ 270 BGN
Villa / House
Average nightly rate for a villa or house
$120.00
≈ 10 070 ₽ · ≈ 216 BGN
Apartment
Average nightly rate for an apartment
$55.00
≈ 4 616 ₽ · ≈ 99 BGN
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Food and drinks
Lunch at a Cafe
Average price for lunch at a casual cafe
$10.00
≈ 839 ₽ · ≈ 18 BGN
Dinner at a Restaurant
Average check for dinner at a nice restaurant
$20.00
≈ 1 678 ₽ · ≈ 36 BGN
Coffee (Cappuccino)
Average price for a cappuccino
$2.50
≈ 210 ₽ · ≈ 5 BGN
Beer (0.5L)
Average price for a 0.5L beer
$2.00
≈ 168 ₽ · ≈ 4 BGN
Water (1.5L)
Average price for a 1.5L bottle of water
$1.00
≈ 84 ₽ · ≈ 2 BGN
Pizza
Average price for a pizza
$7.00
≈ 587 ₽ · ≈ 13 BGN
Burger
Average price for a burger
$6.00
≈ 504 ₽ · ≈ 11 BGN
Dessert
Average price for a dessert
$3.50
≈ 294 ₽ · ≈ 6 BGN
Fast Food Combo
Average price for a fast food combo
$6.00
≈ 504 ₽ · ≈ 11 BGN
Transport
Airport Taxi
Average taxi fare from the airport to the city centre
$25.00
≈ 2 098 ₽ · ≈ 45 BGN
Public Transport
Average price for a single public transport ticket
$1.00
≈ 84 ₽ · ≈ 2 BGN
Short Taxi Ride
Average fare for a short taxi ride
$3.50
≈ 294 ₽ · ≈ 6 BGN
Car Rental (per day)
Average daily rate for an economy car rental
$45.00
≈ 3 776 ₽ · ≈ 81 BGN
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Activities and rentals
Bike / Scooter Rental
Average daily rate for a bike or scooter
$5.00
≈ 420 ₽ · ≈ 9 BGN
Motorbike / Scooter Rental
Average daily rate for a motorbike or scooter
$12.00
≈ 1 007 ₽ · ≈ 22 BGN
Excursion
Average price for an organised excursion
$30.00
≈ 2 518 ₽ · ≈ 54 BGN
Yacht / Boat Cruise
Average price for a boat cruise
$60.00
≈ 5 035 ₽ · ≈ 108 BGN
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Shopping
Shopping
Average amount spent on shopping
$30.00
≈ 2 518 ₽ · ≈ 54 BGN
Souvenirs
Average amount spent on souvenirs
$12.00
≈ 1 007 ₽ · ≈ 22 BGN
Tourist SIM / Internet
Average price for a tourist SIM card
$5.00
≈ 420 ₽ · ≈ 9 BGN
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Frequently asked questions
Varna: when is the best time to go?
The best season for a holiday is July-September. At this time of year the weather is the most comfortable: minimal chance of rain, moderate humidity and optimal air temperature. This is also when the tourist infrastructure runs at full capacity — all hotels, restaurants and entertainment are open. If you want to save money, consider the period right after the high season ends: accommodation prices are lower, and the weather is still pleasant. You can check the temperature by month in the match-by-month tool.
Varna: what is the weather like in summer?
In summer, the air warms up to an average of +29.0°C, during the day — up to +29.0°C. This is a great time for beach holidays and long walks. Sunscreen is recommended during the peak hours from 11:00 to 16:00.
Varna: what is the weather like in winter?
In winter, the air temperature stays around +1.0°C, during the day — up to +7.5°C. For the winter period these are very comfortable figures that allow swimming and sunbathing. Evenings can be cooler, so a light jacket will not go amiss.
Varna: what is the sea temperature?
The sea near the resort warms up to an average of +23.0°C in the warm season. This water temperature is considered ideal for long swims — you can stay in the sea for hours without discomfort. The water is comfortable for both adults and children. If you want to know the exact temperature by month, use the match-by-month tool.
Varna: when is the rainy season?
The rainy season falls on November-December. During this period rainfall is more frequent, but usually short — the rain lasts 1-2 hours, after which the sun comes out again. Humidity is higher, so being outside may be less comfortable. At the same time, accommodation and flight prices during the rainy season are significantly lower — an excellent option for a budget holiday.
Varna: what are the beaches like?
The beaches here are with a "sand" surface, golden sand, clear water. The most popular beaches: Central Beach. The beaches have sunbeds and cafes and bars.
Varna: is it safe to swim in the sea?
Swimming is allowed here, but standard precautions should be taken. The overall danger level in the sea is rated as low — you can swim and enjoy water sports without worry. Lifeguards are on duty on the beaches.
Varna: what are the sea hazards?
The sea contains: jellyfish, sharks. Main danger is rip currents (dead swell), especially in August. Swimming on guarded beaches recommended. It is recommended to swim in special shoes and avoid contact with marine life.
Varna: how much does a holiday cost?
A holiday for one person will cost around $83.00 (≈ 6 965 ₽ · ≈ 149 BGN) per day. The daily budget includes: a 3-star hotel, lunch at a cafe, dinner at a restaurant, drinking water, two public transport trips. Flights are not included in the calculation. You can calculate the cost of your holiday in more detail in the trip planning calculator across all 70 parameters.
Varna: how much does accommodation cost?
Accommodation is available for every budget: a hostel dorm bed — $12.00 per night, a 3-star hotel room — $50.00 per night, a 4-star hotel — $80.00 per night, a five-star hotel — $150.00 per night, an apartment — $55.00 per night, a villa — $120.00 per night. In high season prices can be 20-30% higher, and in low season — lower.
Varna: how much does food cost?
Food is one of the main expense items: lunch at an affordable cafe — $10.00, dinner at a restaurant — $20.00, a cup of cappuccino — $2.50, a 0.5L beer — $2.00, a 1.5L bottle of water — $1.00. You can eat significantly cheaper at markets and street cafes.
Varna: how much does transport cost?
a taxi from the airport — $25.00, a single public transport ticket — $1.00, a short taxi ride — $3.50, car rental — $45.00 per day. Public transport is the most budget-friendly way to get around.
Varna: what is there to see?
Among the main attractions are: Sea Garden — Varna's largest park with alleys, fountains, playgrounds, and sea access; Dormition of the Mother of God Cathedral — Varna's main Orthodox church, one of the largest in the Balkans, built in Neo-Byzantine style; Archaeological Museum — Museum with the world's oldest gold treasure and Roman-era artifacts; Roman Thermae — Ruins of the largest Roman baths in the Balkans, monument of ancient architecture; Aladzha Monastery — 13th-century rock monastery carved into a limestone cliff. These places are worth visiting first to get a full impression of the destination.
Varna: what local food should I try?
Be sure to try the local cuisine: Shkembe Chorba — Tripe soup with garlic and vinegar, traditional Bulgarian dish, popular for breakfast; Kebapcheta — Spicy minced meat sausages grilled on a barbecue; Moussaka — Baked casserole of potatoes, eggplant, and minced meat with white cheese; Banitsa — Layered pastry with white cheese, traditional Bulgarian dish; Gyuvech — Meat stew with beef and vegetables, baked in a clay pot; Bob Chorba — Hearty bean soup with meat and spices; Palneni Chushki — Stuffed peppers with rice and meat; Gevrek — Round bread with sesame seeds, similar to a bagel. Local dishes are an important part of the travel experience.
Varna: what are the best areas to stay?
For accommodation you can consider the following areas: Center — Historic center with cathedral, museums, shops, and restaurants; Sea Garden Area — Prestigious area along the park with hotels and restaurants, popular for walks; Asparuhovo — Residential area with wide beach and relaxed atmosphere; Lazur — Modern area with hotels and sea views; Greek Quarter — Historic area with colorful streets and authentic atmosphere. The choice of area depends on your preferences: active or relaxing holiday.
Varna: is a visa required?
Visa: required (Schengen). Before your trip, be sure to check the current requirements with official sources, as the rules may change.
Varna: how do I get from the airport?
The nearest airport — Варна Международный Аэропорт (code VAR). You can get from the airport to the centre by taxi, the average cost is $25.00. Public transport is also available — a more budget-friendly option.
Varna: what is the currency and how much money should I take?
Currency — BGN. It is recommended to have cash for small expenses and a bank card for larger purchases. The approximate daily budget is $83.00 (≈ 6 965 ₽ · ≈ 149 BGN). Check the current exchange rate before your trip.
Varna: is it suitable for a holiday with children?
Yes, the destination is excellent for a family holiday with children. It has all the necessary infrastructure: well-maintained beaches, cafes and restaurants with children's menus, and entertainment for all ages.
Varna: what is the nightlife like?
Nightlife is rated as high. There are plenty of bars, clubs and restaurants that stay open until morning.
Varna: where can I go nearby?
Nearby you can visit: Golden Sands — Popular resort with 3.5 km of beaches and entertainment, 17 km away; Sts. Constantine and Helena — Resort with mineral springs and beaches, 10 km away; Balchik — Town with Queen Marie's Palace and botanical garden, 40 km away; Stone Forest — Natural phenomenon with petrified columns, 20 km away; Aladzha Monastery — 13th-century rock monastery, 15 km away. These places are convenient to visit on a day trip.

Putivator rating

8.1/10
Overall rank: 95 of 2 709
Rank among coastal: 51

Best season

July-September

Useful information

Currency: BGN
Coordinates: 43.216700, 27.916700